Trade the resort for fields, farms and a wild stretch of beach on a four-hour safari from Punta Cana. Visit Higüey’s basilica, sample local coffee and mamajuana, then cool off at Macao Beach.
Trade the resort for fields, farms and a wild stretch of beach on a four-hour safari from Punta Cana. Visit Higüey’s basilica, sample local coffee and mamajuana, then cool off at Macao Beach.
You climb into an open safari truck and the resort skyline slips behind you—heat and ocean salt give way to fields, low hills and the quick rhythm of rural life. The road angles toward Higüey, the regional hub whose white basilica rises like a town marker, then the truck turns again toward the Cordillera Oriental foothills where the countryside sits at roughly 900 feet and scent shifts from diesel to coffee and cocoa.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Dominican Tours Travel · Punta Cana, La Altagracia
You climb into an open safari truck and the resort skyline slips behind you—heat and ocean salt give way to fields, low hills and the quick rhythm of rural life. The road angles toward Higüey, the regional hub whose white basilica rises like a town marker, then the truck turns again toward the Cordillera Oriental foothills where the countryside sits at roughly 900 feet and scent shifts from diesel to coffee and cocoa.
This short loop threads culture and geology: Higüey’s Basilica de Higüey is a modern pilgrimage site built in the mid-20th century, while the surrounding low mountains are limestone and clay, carved by seasonal streams. You’ll visit a local school supported by the tour operator, meet farmers at small ranches, and sample Dominican staples—coffee, cocoa, tobacco and mamajuana—each tied to island history from Taíno roots to colonial trade.
The finale is Macao Beach: open surf that tempts a quick splash and offers a wide, wind-swept shoreline where currents dare you to wade with care.
Practical guidance: the tour runs about four hours, includes hotel pickup and an open bar, and is suitable for most fitness levels with only light walking. Wear closed-toe shoes for the ranch stops, sun protection for the beach, and bring a small dry bag for valuables on the open truck. Because the route crosses unpaved stretches, expect dust and lively bumps—store cameras securely. This half-day is a compact primer on eastern Dominican life and landscapes, ideal when you want culture, tasting and a beach finish without a full-day commitment.
easy.
4 hours.
Suitable for most travelers; requires short periods of standing and getting on/off an open truck
The tour is approximately four hours and includes hotel pickup/drop-off, a local guide, light refreshments, fruit, and unlimited drinks (open bar).
Yes; the tour is rated easy with minimal walking, but children must be accompanied by an adult and it’s not recommended for travelers with certain health conditions or pregnancy.
The itinerary includes a beach stop for splashing and short swims, but time is limited—arrange extra beach plans if you want a longer visit.
Yes; the safari includes visits to farms/ranches where you’ll sample coffee, cocoa, tobacco products and mamajuana.
Higüey grew into an important colonial center and its Basilica de Higüey, completed in the 1970s, is one of the Dominican Republic’s most visited modern churches.
The eastern Dominican countryside faces pressure from development and tourism; stay on designated paths, take waste with you, and support small local businesses to help distribute tourism benefits.
Dominican Tours Travel operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.


You climb into an open safari truck and the resort skyline slips behind you—heat and ocean salt give way to fields, low hills and the quick rhythm of rural life. The road angles toward Higüey, the regional hub whose white basilica rises like a town marker, then the truck turns again toward the Cordillera Oriental foothills where the countryside sits at roughly 900 feet and scent shifts from diesel to coffee and cocoa.
You climb into an open safari truck and the resort skyline slips behind you—heat and ocean salt give way to fields, low hills and the quick rhythm of rural life. The road angles toward Higüey, the regional hub whose white basilica rises like a town marker, then the truck turns again toward the Cordillera Oriental foothills where the countryside sits at roughly 900 feet and scent shifts from diesel to coffee and cocoa.
This short loop threads culture and geology: Higüey’s Basilica de Higüey is a modern pilgrimage site built in the mid-20th century, while the surrounding low mountains are limestone and clay, carved by seasonal streams. You’ll visit a local school supported by the tour operator, meet farmers at small ranches, and sample Dominican staples—coffee, cocoa, tobacco and mamajuana—each tied to island history from Taíno roots to colonial trade.
The finale is Macao Beach: open surf that tempts a quick splash and offers a wide, wind-swept shoreline where currents dare you to wade with care.
Practical guidance: the tour runs about four hours, includes hotel pickup and an open bar, and is suitable for most fitness levels with only light walking. Wear closed-toe shoes for the ranch stops, sun protection for the beach, and bring a small dry bag for valuables on the open truck. Because the route crosses unpaved stretches, expect dust and lively bumps—store cameras securely. This half-day is a compact primer on eastern Dominican life and landscapes, ideal when you want culture, tasting and a beach finish without a full-day commitment.